More from Football

Denmark's Christian Eriksen not bothered if Republic of Ireland try to man-mark him

Last Updated: 10/11/17 8:24pm

Christian Eriksen expects Denmark to dominate possession against the Republic of Ireland

Christian Eriksen expects Denmark to dominate possession against the Republic of Ireland

Christian Eriksen is not bothered if the Republic of Ireland try to man-mark him on Saturday, saying it will create space for his Denmark team-mates.

Eriksen has scored in each of Denmark's last four qualifiers and is expected to be closely marked in the first leg of their World Cup play-off in Copenhagen, live on Sky Sports Football from 7pm.

"I've been man-marked a few times in my career," said the Tottenham playmaker.

"I don't know if Ireland will do it - I don't really mind if they do. It creates more space for other players.

"With the quality we have I think we could take advantage of that."

Eriksen says Denmark must be patient as they attempt to break down an Ireland side that will put plenty of bodies behind the ball. Martin O'Neill's side conceded just six goals in their 10 qualifiers and have kept clean sheets in their last two games.

"We'll go out and do our thing," said Eriksen. "If they put people behind the ball, like in previous games, we'll need to play quick and open up the game.

"If you have a team that wants to play and one that doesn't, the game may be dragged out. 0-0 is probably a good result for them.

"We want to score and create chances. We'll probably get fewer chances than in other games."

Kasper Schmeichel and Denmark were beaten by Sweden in the Euro 2016 play-offs

Eriksen's international team-mate Kasper Schmeichel says there is a determination in the squad to qualify for Russia 2018, after missing out on the last two tournaments.

"I've never played in a major tournament," said the Leicester City goalkeeper.

"It's definitely something that I want to experience and this a major chance for every single player in the squad.

"We missed out on qualification the last two times. It's no secret, it hasn't been enjoyable sitting at home in the summer watching it on the TV.